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Classic Tomato Sauce

1/4-1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 stalk of celery, finely minced in processor
1 carrot, finely minced in processor
64 oz crushed tomatoes (Italian plum tomatoes, preferred)
4-6 leaves of fresh basil, chiffonade
2 bay leaves
salt & pepper, to taste
1 Tbsp dry thyme
1 Tbsp dry oregano
4 Tbsp butter, for adjusting

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium high heat. Add onion and garlic and saute until soft and translucent, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add celery and carrots and season with salt and pepper. Saute until all vegetables are soft, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Add tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaves and simmer uncovered on low heat for 1 hour until thick.  Add basil during the last 10 minutes.  Remove bay leaves and check for seasoning. If sauce still tastes acidic, add unsalted butter 1 Tbsp at a time to soften it. Put the sauce into a food processor and blend until desired smoothness. Can freeze up to 6 months.

Published inRecipesSauces